Moss Removal Roof Cleaning: The Ultimate Guide

Moss can cause several problems if left unchecked on a roof. It can lead to blocked gutters, which can cause water to build up on the roof, leading to leaks and other damage. Additionally, moss can cause tiles to become dislodged or damaged, resulting in expensive repair costs. Over time, moss can penetrate the roofing material, leading to severe structural damage that can threaten the integrity of the entire building.

Whether a homeowner or a business owner, moss removal and roof cleaning are essential tasks that should be carried out regularly. Vertex Cleaning Solutions is one of the UK's leading residential and commercial roof cleaning services. We thoroughly clean residential and commercial roofs using specialised equipment and expertise to ensure they are cleaned and moss-free.

Types of Roof Moss, Algae, and Lichen Found in the UK

Understanding the type of moss, algae, or lichen growing on your roof helps determine the best removal method. If you are unsure what organic material is growing on your roof or how to remove it safely. In this case, you should speak with a professional roof cleaning company such as Vertex Cleaning Solutions. We can provide a thorough assessment and suggest the best course of action.

Several types of moss, algae, and lichen can grow on roofs in the UK. Here are some of the most common:

Common Green Moss

Most commonly found on roofs in the UK, common green moss usually grows on shaded roofs with a lot of moisture. Common green moss is typically harmless but can lead to blocked gutters and roof damage if left unchecked.

Red Thread

This type of moss is less common but grows on roofs in the UK. It is typically red or orange and grows in damp or shaded areas. The red thread should be removed from the roof as soon as possible because it can cause more damage to your roof than common green moss. Furthermore, it is invasive and can damage your lawn if disposed of incorrectly.

Black Algae

Black algae is a type of bacteria that can grow on roofs. It typically appears as black streaks or spots and can be difficult to remove. Black algae can damage your roof by feeding on the roofing material and causing it to break down.

Lichen

Lichen combines fungus and algae that can grow on roofs. It typically appears greenish-grey or blackish-green in colour and can be difficult to remove. Lichen can cause damage to your roof by penetrating the roofing material and breaking it down over time.

The Best Methods for Roof Moss Removal 

There are several methods of moss removal from roofs, each with advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common methods of moss removal from roofs:

Manual Roof Moss Removal

Manual removal involves removing the moss from the roof's surface using a brush, scraper, or other tools. This method is best for small areas of moss growth and is most effective when the moss is still relatively new and has yet to have time to embed itself into the roofing material.

Pressure Washing for Moss Removal

Pressure washing involves high-pressure water to blast the moss off the roof's surface. This method is effective for removing large areas of moss growth, but it can also cause damage to delicate roofing materials, such as tiles or shingles, if not used correctly.

Chemical Treatments Break the Moss Down

Chemical treatment involves using a cleaning solution applied to the moss, causing it to break down and detach from the roof's surface. This method is effective for removing large areas of moss growth, but it can also cause damage to the environment if the cleaning solution is not used correctly.

Biocide Treatments for Roof Moss

Biocide treatment involves a special chemical treatment designed to kill the moss and prevent regrowth. This method is effective for preventing future moss growth, but it does not remove the existing moss on the roof's surface.

Soft Wash Cleaning

Soft wash cleaning involves using low-pressure water and cleaning solutions to gently remove moss, dirt, and grime from the roof's surface. This method is environmentally friendly and suitable for fragile and delicate roofing materials.

Summary of Moss Removal Methods

Each moss removal method for roof cleaning has its advantages and disadvantages. When choosing a moss removal method, it is crucial to consider the type of roofing material, the severity of the moss growth, and the desired outcome. In addition, some moss removal methods should only be carried out by a professional company such as Vertex Cleaning Solutions; find out why below.

Why Use a Professional Moss Removal Company?

While it is possible to carry out moss removal and roof cleaning yourself, it is often better to get a professional company to do it for you. Here are several reasons to use a professional moss removal company like Vertex Cleaning Solutions:

We Remove Moss From Your Roof Safely

Moss can make surfaces extremely slippery, which can be hazardous, especially when dealing with steep roofs or high walls. Professional moss removal companies have the proper equipment, training, and safety gear to remove moss safely.

We Have the Right Tools and The Expertise in Moss Removal

Professional moss removal companies have access to specialised tools and techniques to remove moss effectively without damaging the underlying surfaces. They can also apply preventative measures to keep moss from coming back.

Professional Moss Removal will Save You Time

Moss removal can be time-consuming and labour-intensive, especially for more significant properties. Hiring a professional moss removal company can save you time and effort and ensure the job is done quickly and efficiently.

It is Cost-Effective

Removing moss will help prevent damage to your roof or walls, which can be expensive to repair or replace. Furthermore, roof moss can cause dampness in your home, which will also cost money to remedy. While using a professional moss removal company may seem like an added expense, it can be cost-effective in the long run.

Prevent Moss Regrowth for Up to Three Years

Professional moss removal companies have the knowledge and experience to identify the type of moss and the best action to remove it. They can also guide how to prevent moss growth in the future.

Insured for Working at Height

As a professional roof cleaning and moss removal company, we are trained and insured to work at height on commercial and residential roofs.

Safe Disposal of Moss and Other Organic Material

Vertex Cleaning Solutions always dispose of organic material waste from roof cleans in an environmentally friendly manner. It is no exaggeration that we have removed several tonnes of moss from roofs on residential and commercial roof cleaning projects. If you do this yourself, what will you do with the waste?

Hiring a professional moss removal company can ensure the job is done safely and effectively, saving you time and cost in the long run.

Soft Wash Deep Roof Cleaning for Fragile Roofs

We use soft wash roof cleaning and deep roof cleaning for fragile roofs. The process involves using low-pressure water and cleaning solutions to gently remove dirt, grime, moss, and other organic matter from the roof's surface. This method is ideal for cleaning delicate and fragile roof materials, such as tiles or shingles, as it does not involve high-pressure cleaning that can damage the roofing material. Soft wash roof cleaning also removes moss, algae, and lichen growth on roofs.

Soft-wash roof cleaning typically involves applying a cleaning solution to the roof's surface and allowing it to sit for some time to break down the organic matter. The solution is then rinsed off using low-pressure water, which gently removes the dirt, grime, and moss from the roof's surface.

Soft wash roof cleaning is a method of cleaning roofs in the UK that is popular, especially for residential properties, as it is a safe and effective way to clean fragile roofing materials without causing any damage. Additionally, it is an environmentally-friendly cleaning method that does not involve harsh chemicals or high-pressure cleaning that can damage tiles.

Conclusion

Moss removal and roof cleaning are essential tasks that should be carried out regularly to prevent damage to your roof and ensure the safety of your building's occupants. Moss can cause many problems, from blocked gutters to damaged tiles and even structural damage. While it is possible to carry out moss removal and roof cleaning yourself, getting a professional company is safer. 

Professional roof cleaners such as Vertex Cleaning Solutions have access to specialised equipment and expertise that can ensure the best possible results. Furthermore, we fully understand the hazards of working at height and undergo regular training to ensure our processes are safe and we are insured.

Additionally, biocide treatments can be applied to prevent regrowth and prolong the lifespan of your roof. Please pay attention to the importance of moss removal and roof cleaning, and it's a small investment that will save you money long-term and keep your property safe and secure.

To book your moss removal roof cleaning project contact us for a competitive quote.